asked the Minister for Justice if he is aware of the public disappointment that in the middle of the "Buy Irish" campaign electric torches made in Hong Kong were recently issued to members of the Garda Síochána; and if he will ensure that future supplies of torches and batteries are obtained from Irish manufacturers.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Garda Síochána Torches.
24.
Mr. Ryan
All purchases of this nature for the Garda Síochána are made by the Department of Posts and Telegraphs. The Minister for Posts and Telegraphs has informed me that when tenders were sought in May, 1964, for the torches in question, the only known Irish manufacturer was invited to tender but replied that he was unable to quote. The order for the torches went to an Irish firm who supplied imported items. The batteries used in the torches are of Irish manufacture. On the next occasion that torches are required the Irish manufacturer, will, as usual, be afforded an opportunity to tender.
Mr. Ryan
Can the Minister say how many torches were ordered on this occasion?
That is a separate question. I have not got the information. The reply I have given is a very full one. It shows every effort was made to get an Irish firm to tender for these torches. The alternative was to secure foreign torches with Irish batteries.
You will not have to buy torches in Cork.
Mr. Ryan
Will the Minister say whether or not it is unreasonable that the Irish manufacturer refused to fulfil the order?
I have given a full answer to the question.
That is a separate question.